Debashish Samantaray Steps Down From BJD Primary Membership And Rajya Sabha Seat

Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and Rajya Sabha member Debashish Samantaray has resigned from the party’s primary membership, marking a significant political development in Odisha and triggering speculation over a possible shift in allegiance. The veteran leader submitted his resignation on Monday through a letter addressed to BJD president and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

In his resignation letter, Samantaray expressed gratitude to Patnaik for nominating him to the Rajya Sabha and for the opportunities he received during his long political career. He stated that he had consistently worked with dedication for the party and represented the interests of Odisha at the national level, particularly during his tenure in the Upper House of Parliament.

However, Samantaray also alleged that he had been “systematically sidelined” within the party in recent years. He wrote that despite his commitment and long-standing service, he felt his contributions were no longer valued within the organisation, prompting his decision to step away from the BJD’s primary membership.

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Following his resignation from the party, Samantaray also met Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan to formally submit his resignation from the Upper House. His exit reduces the BJD’s representation in the Rajya Sabha to five members, marking a setback for the party’s parliamentary strength at the national level.

A three-time MLA, Samantaray has previously represented the Tirtol and Barabati-Cuttack constituencies in the Odisha Legislative Assembly across multiple terms. Known for his influence in key regions such as Cuttack, Tirtol, and Paradip, he has long been considered a prominent figure within the BJD’s organisational structure.

In recent months, Samantaray had reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with internal party decisions, including declining a senior vice-president post. He has also previously made critical remarks about internal party functioning, including targeting former bureaucrat V.K. Pandian, a close aide of Naveen Patnaik.

His resignation has intensified political speculation in Odisha, with observers suggesting that the senior leader may be considering joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While no official confirmation has been made regarding his next political move, his exit is seen as a notable development in the state’s evolving political landscape.

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